Diverticulitis
is a condition that occurs when pouches (diverticula) in your large intestine
become inflamed. Presence of non-inflamed
pouches in the large intestine is known as diverticulosis. You may be at risk of developing
diverticulitis if you have been diagnosied with diverticulosis.
1. Consume more fiber
Many studies
have shown that foods food rich in fiber can be beneficial in the treatment of
diverticulosis. By following a dietary
recommendation, you can reduce risk of developing complications associated with
the disease. If you are not accustomed
to eating fiber enriched foods, gradually introducing it into your diet over
the course of a few weeks is stressed. Recommended daily intake is twenty to
thirty five grams per day. Be sure to drink
plenty of fluids as well. There are two
types of dietary fiber, soluble and insoluble.
Soluble fiber dissolves in water, creating a gel-like substance making
stools softer. Insoluble fiber absorbs
water and increases the volume of the stool.
This enables it to pass through the intestines more easily. The lack of dietary fiber results in a harder
stool, which requires more pressure to to expel. Fiber can be found in various fruits,
vegetables and cereals. Your diet should
include at least five portions of fruits and vegetables per day. Also try not to delay going to the bathroom
once you feel the urge, as waiting too long can cause the stool to harden,
increasing pressure in your colon.
Pressure build up in your colon is a primary risk factor for
diverticulosis, and consequently diverticulitis.
1. Control your weight
A study
performed back in 1986 had shown that obesity, especially abdominal obesity, is
one of the main risk factor for developing diverticulitis. It was found that seventy-five percent of
patients with diverticulitis had been either overweight or obese. By lowering your waist circumference and BMI
(Body Mass Index), you can quell the likelihood of developing diverticulosis or
diverticulitis. Being overweight
significantly increases the risk of developing complications, subseqently
resulting in more invasive procedures. Additionally,
you should exercise regularly.
1. Use supplements
Using the
following supplements can be beneficial in making up for deficiencies of
micronutrients and relieving symptoms:
Vitamin B complex – enables proper digestion and activates various
digestion enzymes
Aloe vera gel – has laxative properties and stimulates bowel movement
Probiotics – helps in maintaining normal bowel microflora
Omega 3 fatty acids – decreases inflammation in the intestines
L-glutamine – helps to preserve structural and functional health of the
intestine
Sodium butyrate – significantly decreases number of diverticulitis episodes
Herbs - chamomile, licorice, marshmallow, slippery elm, wild yam
